What Is Whimsical Decor?

This post contains affiliate links. Please read the disclosure here.

Whimsical decor has been trending on Pinterest and for good reason. Several popular design styles use some of the same hallmarks as whimsical decor.

But, what is whimsical decor exactly? In this post, we’ll define whimsical decor and talk about the key elements that often appear in this design style.

Table of Contents

What Is Whimsical Decor?

The whimsical decor style uses a playful mix of colors, textures, patterns, interior styles, and home decor. Whimsical interior decorating unpredictably arranges decor and furniture without adhering to rigid decorating standards.

It often features lighthearted decorative accents such as a painting of dogs playing poker, or animals riding a multi-seater bicycle.

Rich colors, bold walls, and patterns are a hallmark of the style. A mix and match of furniture, patterns, and decorative accessories much like the eclectic decor style is prevalent within whimsical interiors.

There is no skimping on decor when it comes to whimsical interiors. This style leans much more maximalist than minimalist in its adornments.

Adjacent Interior Design Styles

Several interior design styles use whimsy. Bohemian, eclectic, maximalist, grand millennial, cottage core utilizes a playful mix of textures, colors, and patterns.

Design collections like Opalhouse with Jungalo by Justina Blakeney and Mistiana or Mack and Milo from Wayfair are great places to find whimsical decor. Studio 350 at Overstock/Bed Bath and Beyond is another brand worth checking out if you’re looking for uncommon, creative decor accents.

Patterns, Prints, and Colors

Bright vibrant colors such as pink, blue, green, aqua, teal, and magenta are often found within whimsical decor.

They are often incorporated into busy prints and mixed and matched patterns.

However, whimsical decor does not exclusively use bright, playful colors. There are dark whimsical interiors as well.

whimsical bedroom with lots of prints and patterns

Textures

When it comes to textures, whimsical decor often splashes around dainty, intricate fabrics like lace, long carefree fibers like shag, and fluid textural features like fringe.

Famous Examples

Here’s a look at a few famous examples of whimsical interiors from television and movie sets.

To All The Boys I Loved Before

The School for Good and Evil

Limmeny Snickets a Series of Unfortunate Events

Whimsical and Opulent – Great Gatsby

Key Features of Whimsical Decor

When attempting to create a whimsical interior decorating style, always remember, that there are no hard and fast rules by which to adhere. This style is playful, fun, unexpected, and unrigid.

That being said, some common elements often appear in this style’s interiors.

Wall Decor

Gallery walls, murals, wallpaper, accent walls, living walls, or garden walls.

Furniture

Footstools, ottomans, egg chairs, swings, hammocks, wingback chairs, antiques, and sculptural furniture.

BedBathandBeyond.com – Black Metal Handmade One-of-a-Kind Reclaimed Motorcycle Bar with Light Up Headlights and Taillights

Lighting

Chandeliers, wall sconces, candelabras.

Plants

Hanging plants, potted plants indoors and outdoors, garden walls.

Rugs

Heavy floral prints, bright colors, layering rugs.

Home Accessories

Canopy, drapery, sculptural wall art, gallery walls, painted fireplaces, libraries or bookshelves, bird cages.

BedBathandBeyond.com – Gold Aluminum Textured Mushroom Accent Table with Glass Tabletop

Outdoor Decor

Lanterns, patterned path, and garden lights, colored lights, string lights, painted fence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whimsical decor offers a refreshing departure from conventional design norms, embracing a playful and eclectic mix of colors, textures, patterns, and furniture.

This style allows for endless creativity and personal expression, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a lively and imaginative home environment.

By incorporating elements from various adjacent design styles such as bohemian, eclectic, and maximalist, whimsical decor creates a unique and vibrant space that is both fun and inviting.

I hope you found this post helpful. Here are a few others you may like:

Don’t forget to join the mailing list before you go. I’ll send you a copy of my weekly newsletter filled with my latest posts, decorating inspiration, and deals on home decor.

For more from me follow me on Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram.